Flights between Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, remained disrupted Monday as cartel-related violence continues to impact travel to the popular resort city. Both Delta Air Lines and Sun Country Airlines have canceled flights in recent days, leaving travelers stranded and prompting scrutiny of travel insurance coverage.
The disruptions began following the killing of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, on Sunday in the western state of Jalisco, approximately 200 miles from Puerto Vallarta. While Oseguera Cervantes was wounded during his capture and later died while being transported to Mexico City, the aftermath has included widespread unrest and blocked roadways in Guadalajara, the state capital and surrounding areas.
Four flights to Puerto Vallarta were canceled Sunday, according to airline statements. Sun Country flight SY 535 returned to MSP, as did Delta flight DL 1862. Delta flight DL 1935 was diverted to Guadalajara before returning to Minneapolis, and Sun Country flight SY 531 diverted to Harlingen, Texas, before also returning to MSP. Sun Country stated it is “closely monitoring the situation” and working with local authorities to determine when it is safe to resume operations. Delta said it is adjusting operations and coordinating with airport officials to accommodate affected passengers.
The situation has prompted many Minnesota residents with planned trips to Mexico to re-examine their travel insurance policies. Dan Boyum, an international travel consultant with Remarkable Journeys, reported a surge in calls from concerned clients. “We are getting a lot of calls from clients who are concerned,” Boyum said. He explained that standard travel insurance policies typically do not cover disruptions caused by civil unrest or terrorism unless the U.S. State Department issues a Level 4 travel advisory – its highest level of warning. Currently, no areas of Mexico have received such a designation.
Travelers seeking broader coverage can purchase “cancel-for-any-reason” insurance, but Boyum cautioned that these policies are roughly 30% more expensive and often do not guarantee a full refund. He advised travelers with upcoming trips to closely monitor the evolving situation. “Honestly, they should monitor the situation because we don’t realize if this is a one-day or a two-day acting out by the cartel,” Boyum said. He also suggested contacting airlines and hotels directly to inquire about potential refunds or travel credits, noting that while refunds aren’t always offered, vouchers or frequent flyer miles may be available.
The safety of customers and crew remains the priority for airlines operating in the region, according to a Delta spokesperson. The airline is continuing to monitor the situation closely.
